The History of Billiards

Origins Originated during the 15 th Century Originated during the 15 th Century First modeled after croquet First modeled after croquet The word “billiards” is French, deriving either from “billart”, meaning stick, or “billie”, meaning ball. The word “billiards” is French, deriving either from “billart”, meaning stick, or “billie”, meaning ball.

Evolution of the Cue Stick Tool used in early billiards was a club-like stick called a mace Tool used in early billiards was a club-like stick called a mace In 1600’s, cue stick evolved from the mace and became the standard In 1600’s, cue stick evolved from the mace and became the standard

Milestones 1830’s: Development of the leather cue tip 1830’s: Development of the leather cue tip 1835: Slate used for table tops 1835: Slate used for table tops 1845: Rubber used in billiard cushions 1845: Rubber used in billiard cushions 1850’s: Game standardized-no longer a pastime; classified as a “sport” 1850’s: Game standardized-no longer a pastime; classified as a “sport”

Billiards in America Popularized by Irish Immigrant Michael Phelan Popularized by Irish Immigrant Michael PhelanContributions: Added diamonds to assist aiming Added diamonds to assist aiming Developed new table and cushion designs Developed new table and cushion designs First American Billiard columnist First American Billiard columnist

“Poolroom” “Pool” means a collective bet “Pool” means a collective bet Many non-billiard games involve a pool; the name stuck to pocket billiards Many non-billiard games involve a pool; the name stuck to pocket billiards In 19 th century, poolrooms were betting places for horse racing In 19 th century, poolrooms were betting places for horse racing Pool tables were installed for patrons to pass time Pool tables were installed for patrons to pass time

1900’s: The Golden Age Championship billiards received wider coverage than WW II news. Championship billiards received wider coverage than WW II news. Championship players were as popular as members of other professional sports Championship players were as popular as members of other professional sports

Movie Themes The Hustler The Hustler The Color or Money The Color or Money

Latest Trends Stand Alone Pool Parlors Stand Alone Pool Parlors Played by young professional men and women Played by young professional men and women

Billiards is one of the pastimes that countless people have enjoyed and will continue to enjoy throughout the years

Time to Celebrate….